Privacy

Cell Phone Location Tracking

09.27.13

A cell phone’s geographical location can be tracked by phone companies whenever it is turned on. Cell phone information can provide real-time location information and monitor a person’s movements. This technology can also provide information on where a person has traveled or collective information identifying any cell phones in a specific area at a specific time. Law enforcement personnel routinely obtain this information from telecommunications companies, often without a warrant.

Privacy Risks

Unwarranted intrusion: In June 2013, The Guardian revealed that the National Security Agency (NSA) has been collecting phone records of millions of Verizon customers every day. Collecting this data reveals who people talk to, for how long, how often, and possibly from where  allowing the government to paint an alarmingly detailed picture of Americans’ private lives.

Piecemeal cell phone protections: Currently, a patchwork of cell phone location tracking policies exist at the agency level  meaning that our privacy may be protected in some, but not all, areas of the state. This amendment would ensure that all Ohioans’ cell location
data is protected.

Cell phones say a lot about us: Cell phone location tracking can reveal much about our daily activities, including what political meetings we attend; where we worship; what medical care, treatment, or counseling we receive; information about our friends, relatives, and significant others; and whether we frequent such places as gun shops or gay bars.

Many Police Departments Require Warrants in Non-Emergency Situations
The following cities obtain warrants for these types of investigations: